
NIH Medline Plus Magazine, Vol 18 Issue 2, October 2024
The article focuses on the widespread issue of domestic violence, particularly its impact on women, and the importance of raising awareness, especially during Domestic Violence Awareness Month in October. It emphasizes that domestic violence takes various forms—physical, emotional, psychological, and financial—and highlights the need to recognize these patterns early, as abuse often starts subtly with control and manipulation.
Victims frequently experience significant psychological effects like anxiety, depression, and PTSD, and may feel trapped due to shame or fear. Recognizing signs such as constant criticism, control, or isolation is crucial in identifying abusive relationships. Support systems, both personal and professional, play a vital role in helping victims heal and regain autonomy.
The article stresses the importance of approaching suspected victims with care and creating a safety plan if needed. Resources like hotlines, shelters, and legal support are available to help victims take steps toward recovery. Domestic Violence Awareness Month serves to educate and encourage community action, reminding everyone that love should never involve harm. Empowering survivors through therapy, support groups, and community involvement is key to their healing journey.
Recognizing the signs of an abusive relationship can be challenging, especially for those who may have normalized unhealthy behaviors. Key indicators include:
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Getting help from someone who has experience working within different systems can make things easier for you. An advocate is there to help empower and discuss options, not make decisions for you. You are the expert in your own life and the only one who knows what is right and safe for you.
Survivor Access Financial Empowerment (SAFE)
Financial concerns are a barrier to safety for victims and survivors of domestic violence. Through Survivor Access Financial Empowerment (SAFE) funds, survivors can access flexible funding for a range of unique needs. With low barrier requirements, this funding can be provided quickly to address immediate crises.
Domestic violence and sexual violence service providers may offer:
24-hour hotline:
* Legal advocacy
* Counseling
* Emotional support
* Information and referral services
* Transitional housing
* Emergency shelter t,
* Assistance with appointments to court or the hospital for a forensic rape exam.
Advocates understand the different systems you may interact with: Criminal Justice, Law Enforcement, Family Court, Social Services, Healthcare and Community Resources.
To talk to an advocate, contact the NYS Domestic and Sexual Violence Hotline: call 800.942.6906, text 844.997.2121 or click the link above to chat live. All conversations are confidential, secure and available 24/7 in most languages.
Resources include:
- How to Create a Safety Plan
- What to Know After You've been Sexually Assaulted
- How to File an Order of Protection
- Financial Assistance
- Resources/Support group for DV Survivors
- NY Address Confidentiality Program
- Domestic Violence Advocacy Council: makes recommendations on domestic violence-related issues and effective strategies for the prevention of domestic violence, assists in the development of appropriate policies and priorities for effective intervention, public education, and advocacy, and facilitates and assures communication and coordination of efforts among state agencies and between different levels of government, state, federal, and municipal, for the prevention of domestic violence.

* Call the NATIONAL DOMESTIC VIOLENCE HOTLINE:
@ 1-800-799-7233
* Hours: 24/7
* English/Spanish + 200 through interpretation services



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